Pakistan Cricket Sees Turning Point of retired captain Babar Azam Ahead of Asia Cup 2025
In a key development for Pakistan cricket, retired captain Babar Azam could be returning to the national T20I team before the much-awaited ACC Men Asia Cup 2025 and tri-nation series. This hoped-for comeback is at a time when there are increasing uncertainties in the batting order of the team.
Performance Will Be the Key for Babar’s Return
Sources within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have indicated that Babar’s selection will be closely watched and will largely depend upon his current performance in the **ODI series against the West Indies. The calm and classical batting style former captain is already making news with his consistency and leadership quality.
After a rollercoaster year with captaincy issues, criticism, and media rumors, a solid comeback by Babar can tighten Pakistan’s top-order and introduce the much-needed experience and stability into the team.
Fakhar Zaman Sidelines: A Blow to Pakistan’s Plans
Contrary to the optimistic comeback of Babar Azam, opener Fakhar Zaman has incurred a major setback. The spark plug left-hander has been excluded from both T20I and ODI series because of an injury that occurred during the latest T20I series.
Fakhar’s bold openings and free-flowing stroke play have been key to numerous Pakistan victories. His absence will create a significant gap at the top of the order, compelling selectors to look for options, such as young guns or a reshuffle in the existing side.
Rehabilitation at NCA Lahore Underway
According to PCB officials, Fakhar Zaman has been asked to report to National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore for medical assessment and a full rehabilitation program. Even though the exact nature of the injury has not been made public, initial reports indicate it could take weeks before being match-fit again.
His fitness for the Asia Cup 2025 cannot be taken for granted, which raises questions about Pakistan’s batting approach to the tournament.
What Babar’s Return Might Mean for Pakistan
The Babar Azam return is not about coming back into the team it’s about regaining control, consistency, and tactical know-how. With Pakistan planning to hone its competitive bite for the Asia Cup and the coming T20 World Cup 2026, Babar’s inclusion in the middle order might prove to be a turning point.
His pressure experience, innings anchoring ability, and compatibility with young players make him a pivotal part of Pakistan’s blueprint. The nation’s fans are passionately praying to witness the lynchpin batter wear the green jersey once more and set an example.
Selection Conundrums and Team Strategy
The PCB selectors are now confronted with a difficult balancing act. Fakhar being out and Babar being under observation, they will have to make a plan that combines experience with youth. Will Babar use the opener’s position in Fakhar’s place? Will new faces like Saim Ayub or Mohammad Haris be given longer runs?
The tri-nation series next time could be an experiment ground for these pairs, giving an idea of what Pakistan might look like in the Asia Cup.
As Pakistan prepares for a crowded cricket season, the Babar Azam return narrative is taking shape. Although Fakhar Zaman injury is a sad deviation, the possibility of Babar returning to the squad might revive the team’s campaign before the Asia Cup.
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